Ireland's experimental line-up emerged victorious in a friendly match with Bulgaria that sprung into life late in Dublin tonight.

Ireland's experimental line-up emerged victorious in a friendly match with Bulgaria that sprung into life late in Dublin tonight.

Two late goals helped a second-string Republic of Ireland side beat Bulgaria 3-1 in Tuesday's friendly in Dublin.

After a dull first half, Alan Browne poked the Irish ahead on 56 minutes after Bulgaria keeper Hristo Ivanov had failed to hold a Ronan Curtis shot.

Ivelin Popov levelled a from penalty on 67 but Kevin Long's header restored the Republic's lead on 83.Debutant Jack Byrne and Enda Stevens superbly set up a further late goal for another Irish newcomer James Collins.

Impressive Shamrock Rovers midfielder Byrne and Luton striker Collins were among five Republic players to earn first caps.

Bournemouth keeper Mark Travers and Charlton's Josh Cullen made their international bows from the start with Collins, Byrne and Burton Albion keeper Kieran O'Hara also given debuts from the bench.

Republic boss Mick McCarthy will have regarded the evening as a useful exercise as his team's unbeaten run increased to eight games but it's likely he will return to his regular line-up for next month's crucial Euro 2020 qualifier in Georgia.